“We had a lot of fun! We used the $400 to shop locally and fill gift boxes to give to each childcare/day care in the valley. ECEs are facing some of the highest stress in job and staff shortages, work tirelessly and are a very essential service to the Valley. They work hard and we got to thank them for their efforts this week!

Delivering the gifts gave an unexpected positive boost to the ECEs. Two of them were brought to tears about the generosity and community support.”

“The greatest adventure with my camera thus far. I had so many meaningful and vulnerable and deep conversations with the elders who came in for their portraits. Making it about “their cherished photo” took the vanity/pressure away from the session and acted as a springboard into conversations. We were able to move from small talk quickly which took our conversations to great places. Many of our 15-20 minute sessions were tearful, most ended in hugs, and the photos of them and their stories I know their kids will treasure. I had no idea the level at which our elders were suffering from a lack of connection these past two years- I think the greatest gift was the moments of connection and meaningful conversations. The beautiful portraits were a bonus!”

Planters were provided to 10 families who face challenges in accessing fresh greens. This project was dedicated to the memory of Janice Gascoine.

“It was wonderful… it was really rewarding to see them come together. I am very fortunate to have a greenhouse I was able to grow everything in. As for how it was received, oh so very well! Many of the recipients said it made their day (or week!) And all had huge smiles… I was able to spread them from Canal Flats to Brisco!”

 

This project was funded by a Kindness Microgrant.